The Guardian article discusses a study revealing that children using personal care products—such as lotions, soaps, and haircare items—show higher levels of phthalates in their systems. Phthalates, toxic endocrine disruptors linked to reproductive, immune, and metabolic issues, were detected in over 600 urine samples from children aged four to eight. The study found that Black and Latino children had the highest levels of these chemicals, likely due to socioeconomic factors influencing product types and application habits.
Phthalates, widely used in plastics and personal care products, can migrate from packaging or are added for fragrance stability. Despite being rapidly eliminated from the body, frequent use of such products creates “pseudo persistence” of these toxins. Children’s skin absorbs more phthalates relative to their body weight, and their immature metabolic systems may exacerbate exposure risks.
The research also indicated boys tend to have higher phthalate levels than girls. Additionally, “phthalate-free” labels are misleading; contamination from plastic packaging still occurs. The U.S. FDA has limited regulations, in contrast to stricter European Union standards, making it challenging for consumers to avoid these chemicals.
The study calls for regulatory discussions to reduce phthalate exposure among children, especially in vulnerable communities.
Key Takeaways:
- Phthalates in personal care products are linked to significant health risks for children.
- Vulnerable demographics (e.g., Black and Latino children) are more affected, possibly due to socioeconomic factors.
- Current regulations in the U.S. lack enforcement, highlighting a need for stricter controls on these chemicals in children’s products.
Please refer to the the link to the article here
Kids using lotions have higher levels of hormone-disrupting toxins – study https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/sep/14/kids-sunscreen-lotions-phthalates-study?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other
